Scabies

Scabies are a highly infectious skin condition caused by an infestation of tiny mites. It is transmitted through close physical and sexual contact.

Last updated: 19 June 2008

What is scabies?

Scabies is an infestation of the skin by tiny parasitic mites. These mites are only a few millimetres long so they are very hard to see. Scabies mites burrow under the skin where they live and reproduce.

What are the symptoms?

• The most common symptom is intense itching. This is caused by the mites burrowing under the skin to lay eggs. The mites like warm areas of skin, especially the groin and armpits. The itch is often worst at night when in a warm bed and after a hot shower.
• Tiny red or grey burrow tracks can appear between the fingers and on the wrists. They may also be found in armpits, on the buttocks, the penis and feet.
• Some people have a rash of very itchy red bumps. This is an allergic reaction to the mites and may take several weeks to develop.
Scabies are usually noticed within four weeks of exposure.

How is it spread?

Scabies mites are transmitted from skin-to-skin contact with an infested person. They can be spread by sexual contact and non-sexual physical contact. Less commonly, they are passed through sharing a towel, clothes or a bed.

Who is at risk?

Anyone is at risk of catching scabies if they come into close physical contact with someone who is infested with the scabies mite.

How is it prevented?

It is hard to prevent the transmission of scabies because they are easily caught from close body contact. After treatment, you can prevent further outbreaks of scabies by washing all clothing and linen that may have come into contact with the mites.

How is it diagnosed?

Scabies is detected by examining itchy areas under a bright light. It is rare to see the scabies mites themselves because they burrow under the skin, but this activity often leaves fine red or grey marks on the skin.

How is it treated?

Scabies can be treated quickly and easily with a special cream or lotion. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the different treatments that are available. Follow the instructions carefully to make sure that you get rid of the mites completely. Treatment is usually repeated in 1-2 weeks. It is common for the itch to persist for several weeks after treatment. Antihistamines and creams may be used to help relieve itching after the treatment.

Wash any clothing and linen which has been in direct contact with the affected areas.

What is the public health response?

If you have been diagnosed with scabies it is important to tell your sex partner(s) so they can be treated, and so they do not pass the mites back to you or on to anyone else. It may also be necessary to tell housemates if they have slept in the same bed as you, or shared towels, linen or clothing with you. Your doctor or sexual health clinic can help you decide who may be at risk and help you to contact them. If you wish, this can be done anonymously by your doctor.
Avoid sex until both you and your partner(s) have treated.

Further Information

Sexual Health Information Line (02) 9382 7440 or freecall 1800 451 624 (outside Sydney).

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